Germany v Ireland : Player Ratings

15 October 20142,408 viewsNo CommentWritten by Michael

David Forde – 8

kept very busy throughout, mostly from his own team mates. Constantly used when the Irish defenders found themselves pressured. This tested Forde’s distribution, which is often a weakness for the Galway man. However, his distribution was top notch last night. Made a number of very good saves, notably from Goetze. Could do nothing about Kross pin point effort for the goal.

David Meyler – 7.5

Playing in a position in which he has only played a handful of times and marking Julian Draxler. Could have been a very tough night for Meyler but he was excellent throughout, barely putting a foot wrong. Often resorted to aimless long balls but that was forgivable on the night.

John O’Shea – 9

Fairytale night for O’Shea. Sublime finish at the death for the centurion and his awareness is what got him in ahead of Hummels. Defensively solid throughout, proved by the point that Germany were mainly reduced to shots from outside the area. Germany felt he should have conceded a penalty for a supposed pull back on Goetze. The Slovenian referee, who had an excellent game, gave the right decision.

Marc Wilson – 7

Very busy night for Wilson, who is enjoying a good season. Number of important blocks and often put his body on the line. Comfortable to take the ball out of defense unlike his defensive colleagues.

Stephen Ward – 7

Steady throughout. Often regarded as the weak link in the Irish defense but can be very happy with his performance. Worked well with McLean though both were sloppy in possession at times. Showed his passion for the cause by remaining on the pitch while clearly injured towards the end of the game.

Jon Walters – 6

Always clear what would be asked of Walters in this game. Worked tirelessly throughout the game, while getting little for his endevour. Great assistance to meyler throughout the night which was of key importance. Always gives everything he has.

Glen Whelan – 5

Worked tirelessly throughout but too often was pressured quickly when on the ball which resulted in him playing back to the defensive rather than trying to link up with McGeady. Ireland were more comfortable in possession after his substitution.

Stephen Quinn – 6

Comfortable throughout in possession and never afraid to get on the ball and attempt to make something happen. Unfortunately his good work was ruined by inexplicably backing off Kross for the goal. very poor and costly decision, thought tiredness may have played a part.

James McLean – 7.5

Arguably his best and most mature performance yet in an Irish jersey. Had the beating of Rudiger on a number of occasions. Final ball let him down a number of times but played an excellent cross for Hoolahans effort. Worked tirelessly tracking back and assisting Ward and not afraid to put in some tasty tackles.

Aidan McGeady – 6

Struggled playing behind the striker but a lot of that was due seeing little of the ball. Constantly offering himself for the ball but made the wrong decision with it a number of times. His contribution for the goal is overlooked. Excellent work in the corner took two German defenders out of the game to give Hoolahan a clear crossing opportunity.

Robbie Keane – 5

Despite his hat trick at the weekend, many did not expect Keane to start, particularly given his performance as the lone striker in Tbilisi. Rarely involved and just could not compete with Hummels in the air. A frustrating night that will again bring up questions about Keane playing as a lone striker. No opportunities at goal.

Jeff Hendrick – 7.5

The Derby man took his opportunity with both hands. Comfortable on the ball and always trying to get an attack started. Tracked Kross well apart from the goal. Proved he has a big future for Ireland and why both O’Neill and Keane rate him so highly. Fantastic work for the goal and took the German defense by surprise by playing the ball first time. Put himself in for contention in Glasgow.

Darron Gibson – 7

Showed composure and guile on the ball that was lacking for the first hour. Turned relatively easy for German goal but was an important lynchpin between defense and attack.

Wes Hoolahan – 5

A poor cameo for the Norwich man, whom many people expected, or hoped, to start. Disposed very easily twice while in dangerous positions and a couple of sloppy throws. Cross for the equaliser was over hit but rescued by Hendrick. Very unlucky not to score after a fantastic clearance.